CEREDIGION County Council is warning of a "significant increase" in COVID-19 cases around Cardigan and Aberporth.

It reports that the case is now at 1,081.3/100,000 of the population, the highest level seen throughout the pandemic.

Levels elsewhere in the county also remain high, such as Lampeter and Llanfihangel Ystrad at 582.3/100,000.

The rate for New Quay and Penbryn was 578.1/100,000, according to figures released by Public Health Wales.

The number of cases amongst people under 25 years old continues to rise, and in the last 7 days, ithas increased to 898.6/100,000.

"These levels have been consistently high for a number of weeks and unfortunately is resulting in a number of hospital admissions," said a council statement.

"We urge that care is taken as we go to work and socialise.

"COVID-19 has not gone away and we all need to continue to play our part to keep each other safe."

It adds: "It is never too late to get your vaccine, this will give you the best protection against the virus as we look ahead to winter.

"The COVID-19 vaccine also offers greater protection for your loved ones and our communities. Getting vaccinated saves lives."

Residents are reminded to self-isolate immediately if they develop symptoms and book a test via the UK Government portal.

"The main symptoms include a high temperature, a new continuous cough and a loss or change to smell or taste," the statement adds.

"You should also be mindful of symptoms including a sore throat, runny nose, headache, tiredness, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhoea and generally feeling unwell.

"Even if you’ve been double-vaccinated, please be respectful of others by washing your hands regularly, wearing a face mask where needed and keeping a social distance from other people.

"By following these good practices we can all do our bit to keep Ceredigion safe."

The booster vaccine is now being rolled out which will be followed by the rollout of the vaccine for 12-15 year olds in October.

For further information regarding how to get a vaccine, visit Hywel Dda University Health Board’s website.

Meanwhile the Council has also issued an appeal for people to come forward and fill vacant positions.

"As is the case across the country, many of our services are facing significant pressures with staff shortages," it says.

"This ranges from carers to teaching assistants, cleaners, road-workers and administrative staff and many more.

"These are all key roles that help us deliver frontline services."

A full list of current vacancies are on the Council Careers website https://careers.ceredigion.gov.uk